Buttery Esp Shortbread delivers premium flair crisp bite tender crumb perfect for coffee breaks snacking and classy dessert tables Ideal for gifting
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons espresso powder
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 teaspoons turbinado sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
In a large bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. You're aiming for a light, airy texture that will melt in your mouth as it bakes. Beat in the vanilla until well combined.
Mix the espresso powder with 1 tablespoon hot water until fully dissolved, then stir it into the butter mixture so the flavor is even and bright.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. This buffer of dry ingredients keeps the cookies soft where you want them and crisp where you want crunch.
With the mixer on low, add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in two batches, just until combined. Don't overwork the dough; the goal is a cohesive, tender mass that holds its shape.
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap, and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes (or up to 2 days). Chilling makes rolling easier and helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line baking sheets with parchment for easy release and clean edges.
Roll one dough disc on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into shapes you love or into neat rectangles. Transfer to the prepared sheets. If you like a little flair, lightly sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
Bake until the edges are pale golden and the centers look just set, about 14-18 minutes. The cookies should feel firm to the touch but not hard. Let them rest on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
Dust with a little extra espresso powder or powdered sugar if you like a final, delicate dusting. Enjoy the scent of coffee and butter calling you back for the next bite.
Notes
Buttery Espresso Shortbread Cookies are crisp-edged, tender-centered cookies with a gentle espresso note—perfect for dunking in a latte or gifting.
